Happy Birthday, my little man!

Dearest Hunter -- yesterday, you turned three. Despite all the warnings I received from family and friends, I still can't believe the time has flown so quickly! You have become such an independent little man, quick to respond "I do it all myself!" We're still praying that you'll soon be able to go potty all yourself...

All your life, you have been daddy's little boy -- always quick to help him, shadowing his every move. It is so cute to watch you try to hammer behind daddy, or use a screw driver. It isn't so cute to see your letter "H" drawn on my couch, or crayon scribbled on our front door, or the wall, or the hardwood floor. It is, however, simply adorable to watch you drive your own little tractor right behind Daddy's big "trackie" while helping cut the grass. It is so sweet -- even yesterday -- when you taught yourself how to drive your trackie while standing up -- backwards. I'm pretty sure it's just the beginning of many daring feats you'll have throughout your lifetime, and while I'm pretty certain that it isn't true that children cause their parent's hair to turn gray, you sure are giving it a good run for its money!

You've never been too overly affectionate or cuddly, which honestly, has worried this poor old mamas heart, because I'm a big-time cuddler -- until recently. Several months ago, you began to cuddle with me in the evenings before bedtime (as we watched "Dora Dora Dora" -- one of your favorite shows). And the snuggling melted into cuddles when Daddy and I would tuck you into bed, after we pray. It simply melts my heart when I sing little chorus songs to you and you sign right along with me -- Jesus Loves Me, Zaccheus, The B-I-B-L-E, Jingle Bells --- sigh --- even in the summer you love Jingle Bells. And I'm a melted puddle when you say to us, "luh-lu" -- we love you to, little one! The innocence of a child never ceases to amaze me.

You are so determined, and strong, and quite agile and sprightly ... so much so, that I can't keep up with you! Good thing your daddy is super fast! And son, you just crack us up left and right... and if we can get beyond the whole "NO!" phase, I think we'll be doing just great!

So, I hope you enjoyed your "happy to you" and all your presents. And as we went to bed last night, exhausted after a fun family gathering, I prayed that God would lead your heart, and fill your belly with a burning desire to be a man of God -- implementing all your energy, talent, and charm in ways that will honor Him. I pray that He continues giving us the wisdom to parent you and love you, and hold on to every fleeting moment we can.

"Happy to you" Hunter! We love you!